Korean BBQ (Kalbi)
Korean BBQ Kalbi, also known as Galbi, is a beloved dish of marinated beef short ribs grilled to perfection. The ribs are typically marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil, then cooked over an open flame. It is a staple of Korean cuisine, often enjoyed as a centerpiece for communal dining and celebrations.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Kalbi is a high-protein, high-fat dish due to the marbled beef short ribs, with the marinade contributing a significant amount of sugar and sodium. A typical serving provides a substantial amount of iron and B vitamins, with a calorie count that can range from 500 to 700 kcal depending on the cut and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 38 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Zinc | 6.8 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 7.2 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.8 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Selenium | 28 mcg |
| Potassium | 310 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
Per 1 serving (about 4 oz / 113 g of cooked meat) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Kalbi is a symbol of hospitality and togetherness, often cooked at the table where diners grill their own meat and wrap it in lettuce leaves. Nutritionally, the marbling in the short ribs provides a rich source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid studied for its potential health benefits.
